As the Indian Premier League 2024 heads towards its climactic final on Sunday, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have been tipped to beat Sunrisers Hyderabad by former cricketers Matthew Hayden and Kevin Pietersen for having a superior spin attack this season and enjoying better results in their head-to-head matches.
Former Australia opener Hayden said Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) had defeated SRH in their league stage encounters and that made them confident coming into the final. On Star Sports Cricket Live, he was categorical about KKR’s chances.
“I am very confident that we are going to win here,” Hayden said adding “I think it’s going to be helpful having a few days off to watch this game and actually see what they are about.”
Hayden also talked about the combination of Sunil Narine and Varun Chakaravarthy whom he thinks would make effective use of the Chepauk conditions. “And also just feel that Narine is going to make a big difference with his quality spin as well as Chakaravarthy on that red clay.”
It is worth noting how hectic IPL is, according to Hayden, who underlined mental strength as well as team unity in winning such a demanding tournament. “It’s only getting it right really simple like. It’s only those strong-hearted people who deserve to get the trophy at the end.”
According to former English cricketer Kevin Pietersen Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) will be victorious in the final contest. In particular, KP pointed out SRH’s poor performance against RR on recent past which could cost them negatively.
“They threw in the towel too early for me last night in Ahmedabad. I think they’ve put themselves already on the back foot come Sunday morning,” Pietersen remarked.
KP lauded KKR recent achievements especially after comfortably winning Qualifier 1 and gave emphasis on how important maintaining positivity is. “Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have an upper hand, considering their way of playing, their convincing win in qualifier one, and the last three or four day’s preparation.”
Both experts agree that toss will play a major role in the final, especially if there is due. Nonetheless they say KKR’s confidence level on overall and well preparedness will give them an edge over SRH.
“The toss is 50-50. It is all about the mindset and confidence going into this game,” said Pietersen. “Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) has got match-winners throughout their squad and have been in great form for their key players, especially spinners.”
The stage is set for a battle of skills and strategies as both teams vie for the coveted IPL 2024 title at Chepauk on Sunday. With KKR poised and prepared, whilst SRH need to overcome their recent setbacks, the final promises to be a thrilling contest.
